In a move that contradicts the Oakdale City Council's pledge to evaluate privatization proposals and bids before making any changes, the City of Oakdale issued layoff notices to two public works employees that were in Segment Two of the privatization plan discussed at last Monday's council meeting.

(Editor's note: Due to early holiday deadlines, this article went to press prior to the July 2 Oakdale City Council meeting. Log on to www.oakdaleleader.com for updates to this story and a report on the council meeting.)

Lynne Podesta didn't set out to be a hero that Monday, June 18, when she went to Costless Market for a few items but that's exactly what happened when she rescued a distressed Chihuahua from the confines of a locked car.

More than 120 people converged on Knights Ferry on Sunday, July 1 for the 96.7 co-sponsored 'Rock on the River' event to enjoy the rapids of the Stanislaus River. The event was co-sponsored by River Journey Adventures and the Institute of Technology (IOT) of Modesto and featured water games, a hot dog eating contest and various fun activities once the rafters reached the Orange Blossom Recreation Center. The IOT culinary program donated food and staff to provide a free lunch for the first 100 rafters to reach the end point at Orange Blossom. It was a day of laughter ...

Members of the Oak Valley Hospital Governing Board moved the facility forward on Wednesday, June 27, approving the 2012-2013 Fiscal Year budget and a three-year strategic plan to carry the hospital into 2015 as it transitions into a new facility.

To help celebrate the Fourth of July holiday, there will be a special Lighted Boat Parade on Lake Tulloch, set for 9 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4. Boaters should meet at the South Shore Marina. All are welcome to attend and enjoy the holiday lighting on the variety of boats. Last year, over 60 boats participated, according to parade organizers.

Stanislaus County fire and law enforcement officials will be out in full force during the Fourth of July holiday period to vigorously enforce state laws that allow them to cite those who sell, possess or use illegal fireworks.

Parents with students enrolled at the Oakdale High School were alerted to the possiblity of a man seen videotaping a young high school girl Wednesday, June 27. In light of the recent report of a 16-year-old girl who was kidnapped Wednesday, June 13 as she was walking home from summer school and later raped before being returned to campus, the school thought it prudent to inform parents.

The Oak Valley Hospital Governing Board moved forward on Wednesday, June 27, approving its 2012-2013 Fiscal Year budget and a three year strategic plan to carry the hospital into 2015 as it transitions into a new facility.